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Designs for Davenport’s first all-inclusive playground take shape

Designs for an all-inclusive playground are headed to Davenport city leaders for approval.

Designs for an all-inclusive playground are headed to Davenport city leaders for approval.

The project first began back in 2013, when Gloria Cypret saw her grandson, Gabe, left out of the fun at area playgrounds. Although there are more than 60 parks in Davenport, none of them are fully-accessible for disabled kids and parents.

Cypret and four friends, who call themselves Gabe's Dream Team, began working to build an all-inclusive playground at Vander Veer Botanical Park.

"The process has been rather long because there's a lot of hoops that have to be jumped through, and a lot of people have to give their stamp of approval, but it's worth it. Once we saw that design, it was very much worth it," said Cypret.

Shane's Inspiration, a California-based nonprofit, has now finished the design for the playground. It includes ramps for wheelchairs and walkers, and it will be built on a universal surface to eliminate barriers and tripping hazards.

The design also calls for many sensory elements, like music, sand tables, a misting fountain and braille.

The goal is to build a park for the whole family, where disabled and non-disabled kids and their parents can play together.

"There's fears out there," said Cypret. "So this is a common ground for everybody to come together.  It's acceptance, and they'll get to know these kids for what they like to do best, and that's play."

Next month, the design will go to the city's Historic Preservation Commission for approval. After that, Gabe's Dream Team plans to begin a major fundraising effort.

The project is expected to cost around $500,000.

Donations can be sent to Gabe's Dream Team at P.O. Box 4172, Davenport, Iowa.

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